Papercuts were hung inside Jewish homes in Europe from before the Middle Ages, when superstitious amulets were considered important charms to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Amulets which included any of the names of G-d carried the most powerful Jewish magic, giving special meaning to charms written on paper. Especially popular written amulets were mezuzot, affixed to the doorway of a house to keep evil spirits from entering, and papercuts which were hung inside a home particularly to protect women in childbirth and young children.

This mezuzah draws on designs from Pueblo Indian pottery, elements of Sephardic (Spanish) and "Santa Fe" style found throughout the southwest, and traditional Jewish symbols. Across the heavens are the sun, moon and stars of the universe, held aloft by a rainbow arc, a powerful symbol for the covenant which spreads a canopy of peace over the earthly world below. Beneath the rainbow, the sky is full of thunder clouds and lightning, which bring life-giving rains to the people of the desert. Below the arch is a pattern of eagle feathers, which represent the strength of the spirit world to Native Americans. They are supported in the center by two different half-hidden symbols of the Star of David decorated with squash blossoms/pomegranates, universal symbols of fertility.

In the very center is the mezuzah parchment, framed by spiral posts of a gateway carved in Southwestern style, which is both reminiscent of the Torah ark and represents the mystical threshold that separates the earthly world from the divine. The Hebrew word Shaddai -- -- rests just below. Considered the most complete and powerful name of G-d, this word traditionally carries with it special power to bring safety and protection, which is why it is often written on the outside of a mezuzah parchment or case.

The mezuzah scroll is flanked on both sides by overflowing grapevines, symbols of joy and abundance, growing within a pueblo-style arbor. Below, inside the pueblo, are two 7-branch candlesticks, bringing light and joy to the home and family which dwells therein, surrounded by the wonders and blessings of G-d.

Nan Rubin

8/98

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